Capricorn Region Guides Attractions Events in Queensland

Australian and South African natives plus varieties of Stattis grow on this two and half acre site, Alpha Native Flower Garden, beside Alpha Creek. Feel free to stroll amongst the endemic plant species keeping a look out for the many native birds and wildlife that also utilize the flower garden. Remember to take your camera for the perfect photo opportunity.

The volunteers at the Rowley Roberts Tourist Information Centre can show you examples of petrified wood and direct you to where you might see this in its natural setting. Petrified wood is a type of fossil, in which the tissues of a dead plant are replaced with minerals (most often a silicate, such as quartz). The petrifaction process occurs underground, when wood or woody materials suddenly become buried under sediment. Mineral-rich water flowing through the sediment deposits minerals in the plant's cells and as the plant's lignin and cellulose decays away, a stone cast is left in its place.

The Beta Railway Station Museum houses railway equipment relevant to the steam train era 1880s, as well as historical photos of the local railway establishment. The museum is tribute to the pioneers and settlers who established the township over 100 years ago. A must see for any rail enthusiasts who is traveling to the Central Highlands.

Blackdown Tableland National Park protects a sandstone plateau rising abruptly above Central Queensland's flat plains. Bordered by high rugged cliffs, this is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people. Rock art across the park reminds us of their connection with this country. Dissected by deep gorges, the park offers spectacular lookouts and scenic waterfalls. Unique plant communities thrive in the cooler, elevated climate. Several short tracks take in creeks, lookouts and interesting relics from the past. Go spotlighting at night or relax in the peaceful Munall campground. Enjoy the views from Horseshoe lookout. In a four wheel drive, explore the 19 kilometre loop road.

Incorporating an education and community centre, exhibition space, a theatre cinema, and a cafe, the Blackwater International Coal Centre (BICC) showcases the Australian coal industry, and provides an interactive learning experience for the whole family.

See how early settlers lived and worked, wonder at the size of the massive equipment used today, enjoy a guided mine tour, and learn about Australia’s leading role in the development of important clean- coal technologies.

Experience the warm welcome of a country mining town, see outback scenery, and be amazed by the sheer scale of this world class industry. Whether you are an experienced geo-tourist, a first-timer to the industry, or seeking an exciting day out, the BICC is a must-see.

Visit Peter and Debbie Chalmers at the Blue Hollow Mine for the full sapphire fossicking experience. Fossick at the park through original dirt from their own underground mine to learn how to identify and find sapphires using their equipment, or you can hire some gear and they'll set you up in the adjoining 'Big Bessie' fossicking area to find sapphires 'in the wild'. See video and photographs of the underground, browse through the shop where you can buy sapphires mined, faceted and set at Blue Hollow, have your own sapphires faceted and set into jewellery, view the 'Blue Horizon' - one of the largest gem-quality sapphires found on the fields, and buy or hire your fossicking equipment.

Bluff Rail Station is a must see for rail enthusiasts, Bluff is the major interchange station for coal trains. Many trains are over two kilometres long some of the biggest trains in Queensland. The trains are crucial to the mining industry and carry thousands of tones of export coal to the international shipping port of Gladstone 150 kilometres away each day.

Byfield National Park and Byfield Conservation Park extends over 15,000 hectares. Boasting massive parabolic sand dunes (the oldest reaching more than five kilometres inland) and rugged granite pinnacles, the parks offer remote coastal camping opportunities. They also support many rare and endangered plants and animals and are the traditional home of the Darumbal Aboriginal people. These parks will delight birdwatchers. Sandy Point is part of an internationally recognised wetland and is a breeding site for migratory shorebirds. Endangered little terns roost on the coastal sands. Walk the tracks ranging from easy to difficult. Go fishing. Enjoy camping at one of three camping areas. The national park and conservation park can be accessed by Four Wheel Drive vehicles only.

Byfield State Forest marks the start of the largest undeveloped area on the central Queensland coast. The endemic Byfield fern and Byfield grevillea thrive here. Ancient cycads survive among rugged mountains and beside pine plantations. Waterpark Creek is great for birdwatching. Spy azure kingfishers flitting over the water's surface or listen for the distictive call of the wompoo fruit-dove. Camping is permitted at three sites. Dogs on leashes are allowed only at Red Rock campground. Horses are permitted in some areas. Estuarine crocodiles have been seen in Waterpark Creek and at Red Rock - so be croc wise!

The Capella Aquatic Centre opened in 1997 at a cost of more than two million dollars and is much more than just a swimming pool. In fact, it has five pools, a gymnasium, squash and picnic areas, as well as conference facilities and free electric barbecues. The swimming facilities, which are all solar heated, include a 50 metre Olympic pool, a learner's pool, a wading pool, a water slide and a hydrotherapy pool. The complex also offers a fully facilitated cafe for takeaway or dine in meals. Swimming lessons, squad and water aerobics are available at the property. The complex is also the home of Dunes Mini Golf, their very own 9 hole putt putt course.

Capella Creek presents the chance to amble along and view some of the 120 plus open woodland bird species found here. A perfect setting for a picnic with the family, rest before the journey begins again or just an opportunity to sight that allusive woodland bird. Capella Creek is waiting to welcome you.

Don’t miss the wall and pole murals in Peak Downs Street. The pole near the pub commemorates the fact that the placing of emu plumes in the Australian Light Horse Brigade hats began at Capella during the Great Shearer’s Strike of 1891. Stretch your legs and enjoy the 30 historical murals painted on the light poles along Capella’s main street.

The 1869 'Peak Downs' Homestead is the largest restored station homestead of its kind in Australia, and it is the centrepiece of the Capella Pioneer Village complex on the Gregory Highway at Capella, in Queensland's Central Highlands region. 60,000 wooden 40 x 10 centimetre shingles make up the roof. No nails, nor any other fasteners, were used in the pit sawn spotted gum timber walls.

The Capella Pioneer Village also boasts the woolshed from 'Gordon Downs' station that has a tale to tell on the Central Highlands origins of the 1891 Great Shearers Strike. Ask about the sabotage attack on the military train.

Wonder at the magnitude of the post World War II " Food and Britain" scheme. The Queensland British Food Corporation (QBFC) held 200,000 hectares of open downs grasslands across the Highlands in 1949 and had 27,000 hectares under crop in 1950. The operational headquarters were at Capella. Come and see the tractors and farming machinery and learn of the people who worked to make that feat possible.

Join in the fun of the annual Craft Fair and Vintage Machinery Rally that is held on the second Saturday in September.

Coach and school groups always welcome.

Note: The Village closes over the Summer wet season.

Capricorn Cave Tour is the premier nature based attraction in Central Queensland. Here you can explore spectacular caves in a limestone ridge and spot little insectivorous bats in certain seasons. These magnificent caves are located north of Rockhampton and winner of many major tourism and environment awards and eco-tourism accreditation.

Cathedral Cave Tour is the most popular with its wheelchair access and the amazing natural acoustics of the Cathedral Chamber. It's a popular venue for weddings, Carols at Christmas and orchestral performances. In December, the natural phenomenon of Summer Solstice Light can be seen on the 11.00 a.m. tour.

For the adventurous, there are wild caving explorations or abseiling. The adrenalin charged caving tours involve underground exploration with the light of a cave helmet and are available on request.

After your tour, enjoy refreshments at the Caves Kiosk or a drink from the licensed Bat Bar, a swim in the pool or cook up a barbecue. A visitor centre provides fascinating information about the local geology, bats and community history.

Bus transfers from Rockhampton accommodation are available three days per week.

Capricorn Coast National Park has four separate accessable sections that can be enjoyed in a 30 minute drive between Yeppoon and Emu Park. Mangroves, dry rainforest, tussok grassland and open eucalypt forest provide a wonderful contrast to the blue waters of Keppel Bay. Rocky outcrops along the Capricorn Coast are the result of violent volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Enjoy a beachside picnic at Bluff Point day use area and take the 2.3 kilometre walking track for fabulous views over islands and hinterland. Watch sea turtles from the high cliffs of Turtle lookout. Explore Double Head along a sealed 365 metre walking track. Visit Fan Rock lookout, a fan-shaped cliff formation with hexagonal basalt columns.

Capricornia Cays National Park includes eight islands formed from coral fragments, which rise just a few metres above the high tide mark. Their biological diversity, exceptional beauty and the endangered plants and animals they protect make them internationally significant. The cays and nearby coast support the largest breeding population of endangered loggerhead turtles in the South Pacific.

A large percentage of all seabird species in the Great Barrier Reef visit each year. Anchor in the sheltered lagoon at Lady Musgrave Island. Go reef-walking, snorkelling, diving, birdwatching, boating or fishing. Camping is permitted on three of the eight islands. Purchase permits in advance. Seasonal closures protect breeding seabirds, turtles and vegetation.

Carnarvon Gorge section, Carnarvon National Park - a spectacular gorge system with towering white cliffs and lush side gorges - is Queensland’s central highlands' most popular attraction. Carnarvon Creek meanders through eucalypt and cabbage palm forest and attracts 170 bird species. Explore creeks, mossy gorges and cool rainforests on 21 kilometres of walking track. Head for nearby Mickey Creek and the Rock Pool or climb Boolimba Bluff. Discover Aboriginal art at Baloon Cave and the Art Gallery. Spot whiptail wallabies and fairy-wrens, and watch platypus in the creek in the early morning.

Enjoy camping in the visting area during the Queensland school holidays: Easter, June to July and September to October. Bookings are essential. Privately run accommodation is available at all times of the year.

Champions Brock Experience is the largest collection of Peter Brock Road and Race cars in the country. In a purpose-built world-class facility, along with over 38 vehicles, there is also a vast collection of professional and personal memorabilia of Peter Brock.

"Brock-The Legend Show Spectacular" runs on a Saturday at 10.00 a.m. and features exclusive footage from Peter Brocks career and his personal life set to music and accompanied with an amazing light show. A must for avid Brock fans.

The merchandise shop also features a vast array of Brock merchandise including some personally signed items for sale.

Entry is available Monday to Saturday via general admission. Please contact the office for up to date opening times and prices.!

In the Keppel Group of Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, you can drift dive the deep channel to 30 metres between the Child and Barren islands known as "The Gulch". Its walls are lined with small colourful invertebrates. On a good dive, gropers, barracuda, trevally, stingrays, wobbegongs, cobia and surgeonfish can be seen. Novice divers can dive at 15 metre level to view magnificent coral formations, the Gulch cave, forests of sea whips and sea fans.

At Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, you can cuddle a koala, hold a snake and hand feed their very friendly kangaroos and wallabies whilst you experience more than 350 fascinating native animals, across 70 Species. They successfully breed many endangered native animals including koalas, cassowaries, parrots and marsupials and have more than 350 animals, including dingoes, emus, wombats, possums, sugar gliders, koalas, cassowaries, bettongs, potoroos, fox, turtles and a large variety of native birds. The sanctuary can be found less than ten minutes from the Capricorn Resort, 28 minutes from Rockhampton and 15 minutes from Yeppoon Beach.

Their interactive animal show is at 1.00 p.m. daily. Cuddle a Koala for only AUD10.00 extra and enjoy their swimming pool, rainforest, bushwalk and barbecue areas. Get really close to their crocodiles and other reptile friends like large pythons, lizards, turtles and skinks. Their many parrots want to have a chat and dance. They receive no government funding and rely solely on admission and donations. Cooberrie Park is the only Wildlife Sanctuary in Central Queensland that takes care of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife; the animals appreciate your support.

The CQ Military and Artefacts Museum houses artefacts from the military history of Rockhampton and district including American Army uniforms from World War Two and a room devoted entirely to Rockhampton history. So come along with your family and friends and explore the past at this very well presented museum. The attraction includes women at war, personal diaries, war photographs, light horse memorabilia, badges and medals as well as personal collection of Vietnam Veteran. All of the articles are donated by the local community.

Tour groups and schools are welcome to come along and are catered for on request. Step back in time at the CQ Military and Artefacts Museum.

The origin of the town's name is shrouded in mystery! Some say a railway surveyor saw a dingo on the creek bank and gave the town its name, others say that Moses Wafer, an earlier pioneer, heard dingo's howling at night and named the town around his camping site. A bronze statue of a Dingo is in the town commemorating the town's name.

Egg Rock is located in a Marine National Park "B" Zone - the Keppel Group of Islands on the Great Barrier Reef are totally protected. Wall dives to 30m on the seaward side, numerous types of corals and fish life - some up to 70kg! Coral Trout in abundance and Clown Fish (the size of your hand) in their Anemones in patches up to 10m in diameter. Sea Snakes, Cod, Barramundi, Hussar's, Sweetlip, Hump-headed Batfish and Red Emperor to name a few. This site is a photographers dream.

Relax as you meander through an oasis like no other within Queensland’s Central Highlands: the Emerald Botanic Gardens is a tropical paradise providing the perfect location for a relaxing afternoon stroll or an early morning walk.

Situated on the banks of the Nogoa River the Emerald Botanic Gardens are the only botanic gardens located within the Central Western District of Queensland. Covering an area of 42 hectares (420,000 square metres) the gardens provide Emerald residents and visitors with not only a place to relax and unwind, but also an opportunity to gain further insight into the regions natural environments.

Established in 1987 by the Emerald Shire Council and local residents Lawrie and Myra Stanton, the Gardens are home to 12 different themed plant communities, most representing plant species that are indigenous to the region.

A step by step snapshot of Emerald's history is situated in 'Morton Park', Emerald. This project was made possible by Centenary of Federation funding. Walk the mosaic pathway which depicts 100 years of Emerald’s history with 21 intricately tiled designs. A painstakingly approach which was created by 10 of Emerald's local artists.

In 1899 Emerald’s first Railway Station was built, but unfortunately burned down within a year. In 1900 a new Railway Station was built of timber, with iron roof and wrought iron trimmings. The heritage-listed railway station boasts an elaborate entry with wrought iron lacework and pillared portico, offering great photo opportunities. Built in 1900 and restored in 1986 is this National Trust listed Railway Station.

Soak up Emerald’s history at the Pioneer Cottage complex. Included in the complex is one of Emerald’s first cottages, a lead lined lockup, St Marks Presbyterian Church and a communications museum. Unfortunately, little is left of Emerald's early history as it was ravaged by major fires in 1936, 1940, 1954 and 1968. Emerald Pioneer Cottages are of buildings from Emerald's past and offer visitors an opportunity to look at a number of aspects of the town's past.

View one of the largest windmills in Queensland, measuring 24 feet in diameter. While in Springsure visit the Federation Woolshed - with an information centre; two early homesteads, a large windmill, wagon and cattle yard displays, all at Rich Park in William Street, don't forget you camera for that perfect photo opportunity.

Footlights Theatre Restaurant is a true Australian gem. There's a sumptuous three-course dinner with a brilliant two hour show performed by a professional team who have almost 3,000 shows and 27 years under their belts.

There are two types of shows to choose from. The one hour lunch or morning tea show of the nostalgic Tivoli-Vaudeville genre, or the two hour night show which is topical, extremely funny and guaranteed to give you the glow that only laughing brings.

Footlights has become a must for visitors to the Capricorn Coast because there's nothing else that comes even close to the quality show and food at Footlights.

Bookings are essential.

This amazing fossilised tree is 250 million years old and is located outside Emerald's Town Hall. The tree was unearthed in 1979 when a new railway bridge was being built across the Mackenzie River for the Gregory Mine. It was presented to the town in its centenary year by the mining company.

The Gracemere Saleyards, located eight kilometres west of Rockhampton, began operations in 1953.The saleyards hosts the world's largest stud sale (Brahman Week) and Australia's biggest horse sale (National Quarter Horse Sale). Extensive upgrading of facilities totalling AUD7.5 million began in 2003, ensuring that the saleyards remain one of Central Queensland's foremost attractions.

Visitors can expect an inside view of livestock sales in the comfort of the upgraded selling ring, comfortably sitting up to 1,000 people. Stud sales are conducted primarily in the spring, September through to November, and many Australian and Australasian records are held both in relation to prices and the number of stock sold. The current highest price paid for a beast is AUD80,000 the beast being a Brahman bull CMT TUXPEND (IMP) USA.

Ka Ka Mundi, Carnarvon National Park, has more than 30 kilometres of sandstone escarpments and plateaus, dry rainforest surrounding clear springs and brigalow scrubs on clay soil. Aboriginal people have close ties to the area. They believe that Bunbuncundoo Springs has special healing powers and harmful spirits live in nearby caves. Ka Ka Mundi suits wilderness seekers. Experienced walkers with compass and map will enjoy exploring. Self-sufficient visitors can bush-camp around Bunbuncundoo Springs. The park is best in cooler months, though mornings can be frosty.

Keppel Bay Islands National Park, including 15 islands surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, is the traditional home of the Ganomi-Woppaburra Aboriginal people. Secluded beaches, plunging cliffs and diverse plant communities are just some of the attractions on offer. Sea turtles breed and feed around the islands. On North Keppel Island, discover wildlife and enjoy the views on three walks. Snorkelling and diving are also popular. Go fishing, but adhere to regulations. Learn about Humpy Island's history and explore its circuit walk. Enjoy camping on one of seven islands.

The multi award winning Keppel Bay Marina welcomes visitors by land and sea. Being the largest marina in Northern Queensland, it has become a major tourist attraction on the Capricorn Coast.

Keppel Bay Marina, situated in Rosslyn Bay, is the 'gateway' to the Keppel group of islands.

While visiting the Marina you are able to take in the fresh sea air, take a stroll around the docks and marvel at the luxurious boats moored in the 290 berths.

Keppel Bay Marina boasts the award winning Waterline Restaurant/Cafe/Bar. Come and relax on the deck and enjoy home baked tasty meals and treats, or take in the aroma of Italian style Lavazza coffee whilst enjoying the unique landscaped gardens overlooking the magnificent marina. The venue can also cater for special functions whether it be a wedding, engagement party, corporate event or birthday party. Delight in the evening dining menu overlooking the lights of the marina.

For all your boating needs, the chandlery at Keppel Bay Marina can help. If buying a boat, then come and see their broker who is able to assist.

The friendly staff at Keppel Bay Marina strive to make your visit relaxing and enjoyable, so come and be their guest.

Rockhampton's Kershaw Gardens were officially opened in September 1988 as part of a project celebrating the Australian Bicentenary. Initial development of the gardens commenced in 1976, on an old landfill reclamation area.

Today, the Gardens represent a natural Australian bush environment, in contrast to the more formal style of traditional Botanic Gardens. These magnificent gardens stretch for one kilometre along the Bruce Highway and provide an attractive, peaceful setting within the heart of Rockhampton.

Koorana Crocodile Farm is a commercially operated crocodile farm and restaurant located half an hour drive from Rockhampton. Fully guided tours are operated daily at 10.30 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. with crocodile hatchings being seen from March to May. Last entry to farm is 2.00 p.m. and gates close at 3.00 p.m. The restaurant serves crocodile meat dishes as well as standard meals and crocodile skin products are available including wallets, belts and clothing. All crocodile skin products are Australian made and are sold with CITES permits. Visitors have the opportunity to touch and hold a specially trained crocodile. Also offered is Spotlight Dinner Tours and group tour specials.

Little House of Gems is filled with exquisite Jewellery, Gems and Crystals from all over the world. The local Sapphires and Zircons that they mine, facet and set into gold will dazzle you with their beauty. Their service is friendly and informative. They aim to help you have a fabulous time searching for gemstones.

Bags of wash for sale and tuition provided in how to sieve, wash and sort the sapphires from the alluvial gravel. Once you know how to identify gemstones, hire a Fossicking kit and head out to the Fossicking Areas! Or, if time is short, take a Specking Tour and see what you can pick up! Bring your stones back to the Little House of Gems to be sorted into stones that can be facetted. Michael and Karen will provide you with all the information you need to increase your odds of finding a precious stone. Have your gemstones facetted or polished by Karen, the Gem Cutter and turned into a family heirloom by Michael the Manufacturing Jeweller.

Enjoy a cappuccino, pot of tea or cool drink and cake in the shady seating area.

Buy direct from the Miner. M and M Sapphires have exquisite Cut Sapphires and Sapphire Jewellery on display. They can also set your stones, or choose from their wide range of precious and semi precious gems, into their large range of jewellery settings. Look no further for your faceting supplies and jewellery tools. Phone and mail orders welcome.

Mackenzie Park, on the eastern side of town, is home to a rare tree that is only found in the Duaringa township. The Duaringa stringy bark, known to the Aboriginals as "budgeroo', grows up to 10 metres tall and has bushy foliage with small white flowers that bloom in spring. These trees were of great cultural significance to the early Aboriginals who used its bark to make rope, baskets and building materials.

Visit the park during the day to enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of the budgeroo and hear the splash of the waterfall in the lagoon. Visit during the night to see the waterfall lit up to create colourful reflections on the sand and the lagoon. Mackenzie Park has camping areas with electric barbecues and free hot showers.

Next to Mackenzie Park is a historic cemetery with many graves and headstones dating back to the 1800s.

Located in the Keppel Group of Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, Man and Wife Rocks Features a beautiful plateau (around 6-8m) of rich coral reef with extensive varieties of hard and soft corals. Staghorn corals are prolific - great macro photography. A number of sea anemones with resident clownfish, large schools of pelagic fish. There is a drop-off where large sponges, sea fans, sea snakes and wobbegong sharks can be encountered.

Rising abruptly above the surrounding dry plains, Blackdown Tableland protects spectacular sandstone scenery at the north-eastern edge of the Central Queensland sandstone belt.

This elevated sandstone plateau (900 metres above sea level) is much cooler and moister than the surrounding area creating an isolated habitat that supports a number of endemic animal and plant species. The park has vertical sandstone cliffs rising 60-350 metres above the flat scrub below and deep gorges filled with cabbage palms and tree ferns.

This self-guiding walk uses interpretive signage offering insights into the Aboriginal and European history of the park. It begins with an easy walk through the old cattle yards, and then continues near Mimosa Creek, going upstream to an Aboriginal art site. Plants used by Aboriginal people for food and shelter can be seen along the way.

A relatively small National Park near Springsure in Central Queensland, Minerva Hills is dominated by Mount Boorambool, rising 600 metres above sea level, and the larger cliff fringed Mount Zamia (560 metres), which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Named after the Minerva Hills Volcanics, these mountains are some of the oldest in a line of volcanoes across the eastern Australian continent - dating back some 20 million years.

The rich variety of plants provide habitat for much wildlife. Look for Eastern Grey Kangaroo's, wallaroos and several different wallabies throughout the park. Spotlighting at night may reward with a sighting of the elusive Sugar-glider or the larger Greater-glider. The park is also home to the locally rare fawn-footed Melomy and the little known Pebble-mound Mouse.

Fred Gorge picnic area has wood barbecues, toilets, limited drinking water and shelter sheds. Picnic tables are provided at the Springsure and Eclipse lookouts.

Camping is not permitted.

With a height of 604 metres, Mt Archer dominates Mt Archer National Park and provides a dramatic backdrop to Rockhampton. The park protects a range of plants and animals, including plant species with restricted distributions, also the glossy black-cockatoo. Named in honour of the Archer brothers who explored the Fitzroy area, it is part of the Darumbal Aboriginal people’s traditional country. From Mount Archer. view spectacular sunsets. Stroll around the plateau for views across the city and the Capricorn Coast. Walk 11 kilometres from the summit to German Street. Enjoy a picnic in Fraser Park, which is managed by Rockhampton City Council.

Mount Etna Caves National Park contains some of Australia's most cavernous limestone formations. Protected from fire by the limestone karst, dry rainforest thrives amongst sharp pinnacles and shady crevices. The national park is especiallly important to a number of bat species. 80 per cent of Australia's breeding population of female bent-wing bats use a single cave in the national park for birthing and rearing their young. During this time ranger guided tours are offered to see the spectacular nightly emergeance of over 100 000 bats. Tours operate during the bat breeding season, from December to February (fees apply). Outside of this time the track is open to the public. Picnic at the Cammoo Caves picnic area and go on a self-guided walk.

Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park, 36 kilometres west of Rockhampton on the Capricorn Highway is an internationally known destination for thunderegg fossicking. Thundereggs or 'volcanic birthstones' are crystalline formations that occur when gas bubbles in molten lava solidify on cooling. Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park is also a well-known destination for the purchase of semi-precious Australian gemstone products, cut and polished in the Mount Hay factory. Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park is also the home of 'Aradon Fine Pewter', where a large range of Australiana gift lines and souvenirs are produced and marketed nationally. Visitors to the park have a choice of browsing the gift shop, going fossicking (tools and assistance provided), or taking a guided tour of the fossicking area and the gemstone cutting and pewter casting factories. Admission to the park is free (includes picnic area and barbecues), and there are camping and caravan sites as well as a kiosk. Fees apply to fossicking and tours and enclosed footwear is required.

Mt Moffatt section - Carnarvon National Park is remote but it possesses Queensland’s highest plateau, which offers impressive views. Rugged ranges sweep down to sandstone cliffs, with open woodlands and sandy valleys below. From any of four basic campsites, take a long, scenic four wheel drive tour, with short walks to nature's amazing sculptures at Lot's Wife, Marlong Arch and The Chimneys. View Aboriginal art from the boardwalk at The Tombs. Picnic at the Top Shelter Shed. From the Consuelo Tableland, enjoy sweeping views over the park. Go birdwatching for honeyeaters, parrots and raptors by day, and spotlighting for feathertail gliders and sugar gliders at night.

Nob Creek Pottery is a Cottage Industry producing fine pottery in the traditional style and is run by Steve Bishopric and Sue McBurnie, professional potters for over 25 years. Visitors can meet the potters, see the workshop and enjoy one of the largest displays of Australian craft work in the country. The gallery features the nationally acclaimed work of Steve and other resident potters, along with 40 exhibitors from throughout Australia. Fine examples of pottery, hand blown glass, jewellery, woodwork, sculptures and other crafts ensure there is something for everyone. Nob Creek Pottery offers you the opportunity to see something different and visit this unique and beautiful part of Capricornia.

As the largest natural water body within the Central Queensland Sandstone Belt, Lake Nuga Nuga (adjacent to the National Park), provides a valuable habitat for waterbirds in an otherwise arid landscape. The Lake has only recently formed; the result of a series of natural events which occurred over a short period. Heavy rain and flooding of the Brown River filled the Lake and surrounding swamps. The many dead trees through the water indicate this relatively recent phenomenon. The park protects remnants of dry rainforest scrub whose origins come from earlier geological times. Mount Warinilla, at the south western end of the park, offers ideal views of the park and devoted bird watchers will find the lake a haven for pelicans, swans and numerous water birds.

Nuga Nuga National Park has very basic infrastructure in-place, including walking tracks, basic picnic and camping areas. As this park is remote, be sure to bring adequate supplies of food, water and fuel.

Outer Rocks, in the Keppel Group of Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, has entry at 8m over superb ridges rich in hard and soft coral. The ridge is known as Snake Paradise due to the resident population of olive sea snakes. There are many gutters to explore, ledges, and a good variety of marine life. Green and loggerhead turtles are also regular visitors. Snorkeling and safety stop area over the staghorn and coral patches.

The distinctive Peak Range, a succession of gigantic conical and dome topped mountains north of Capella, is a photographer's delight. Discover the grandeur of the Peaks up close on a self drive tour, or while sampling country hospitality. A special place where you are invited to relax, unwind and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Peak Downs.

Rising abruptly above the surrounding dry plains, Blackdown Tableland National Park protects spectacular sandstone scenery at the north-eastern edge of the Central Queensland sandstone belt.

Due to its elevation this sandstone plateau (900 metres above sea level) is much cooler and moister than the surrounding area, creating an isolated habitat that supports a number of endemic animal and plant species.

The park has vertical sandstone cliffs rising 60-350 metres above the flat scrub below and deep gorges filled with cabbage palms and tree ferns.

The Rainbow Falls walk begins with a pleasant walk through open forest. Then there is a sudden change of scenery, with views into the luxuriant gorge and out to distant plains and hills. The track continues to Rainbow Falls, with steep steps leading to the bottom of the waterfall and a series of rocky pools and platforms.

Rockhampton Art Gallery, with the fine quality of its Australian art collection, frequent exhibitions and busy program of activities, is the hub of Central Queensland's art scene.

Selections from the Gallery's nationally renowned collection are regularly on display, including major works by Sir Joshua Reynolds, Grace Cossington Smith, Charles Blackman, Arthur Boyd, John Coburn, Russell Drysdale, James Gleeson and Fred Williams.

A busy round of activities is also presented throughout the year, offering entertainment for all. On most Sundays of the year, the Gallery presents such activities as chamber music concerts, poetry readings, art films, talks and creative workshops for adults and children.

Visitors wishing to plan a visit to the Gallery may find it useful to receive the Gallery's six monthly exhibitions guide and monthly events update. For this update contact the Rockhampton Art Gallery direct.

The Rockhampton Post Office, built in 1895, is a good example of Classic Revival Architecture. The interior has been modified to suit modern requirements and the two street frontages remain as originally constructed.

Key features of the building are the magnificent colonnades on both levels. There's even a central clock tower that has watched over 100 years of history pass by it.

Rockhampton is full of magnificent locations, which remind visitors of the town's history. Let the Rockhampton Post Office remind you of that history and take you back to the days of the gold rush.

Renovated from one of the town's original miner's cottages built in 1914, Rubyvale Gem Gallery is now home to one of the most spectacular collections of precious Australian sapphires. Available for purchase are beautiful sapphires mined and cut by owner Peter Brown, who is recognised as a sapphire specialist, and one of the best gem cutters on the Gemfields today. Visitors continually compliment the unique designs of the sapphire jewellery on offer.

While visiting the Gallery, enjoy a Devonshire tea with a choice of four delicious varieties of Nette's home-made scones. Relax with the resident rainbow lorikeets in the award winning garden - a treat not to be missed while visiting Rubyvale. There is also a self-contained holiday unit available for overnight or weekly stays. An Oasis in the heart of Rubyvale.

Spring-fed Nogoa River and Louisa Creek wind through a picturesque broad valley beneath craggy sandstone outcrops in the Salvator Rosa section of Carnarvon National Park.

At the western edge of Central Queensland's sandstone belt, Salvator Rosa contains deeply eroded and spectacular rock formations, such as Spyglass Peak and the Sentinel, which dominate the skyline. See the vivid orange-barked yellow-jacket trees as you walk 500 metres to the base of Spyglass Peak.

Along the path you pass through a remarkable sandstone wall that looks like the ramparts of an ancient fort. On a fine day as you stand and admire this impressive landmark, you can see blue sky through the spyglass-shaped rock formation, which is well worth a photograph.

This walk in Byfield State Forest passes over Freeman's Crossing and winds alongside Stony Creek through mature exotic pines with a heath understory featuring the Byfield Fern (Bowenia serrulata).

Picturesque recreation areas surrounded by rainforest-edged creeks, rugged mountains, pine plantations and ancient cycads are a highlight of a visit to Byfield State Forest.

Pockets of rainforest thrive in the range and along Waterpark Creek, a major stream supplying water to the Capricorn Coast. Natural rock pools provide a welcome relief for walkers during the hot summer months.

Rising abruptly above the surrounding dry plains, Blackdown Tableland protects spectacular sandstone scenery at the north-eastern edge of the Central Queensland sandstone belt.

This elevated sandstone plateau (900 metres above sea level) is much cooler and moister than the surrounding area creating an isolated habitat that supports a number of endemic animal and plant species.

The park has vertical sandstone cliffs rising 60-350 metres above the flat scrub below and deep gorges filled with cabbage palms and tree ferns. This trail through dry open forest and rocky outcrops offers an awe-inspiring view into the sandstone gorge. Heavy rains create a spectacular sheer-drop waterfall into Stony Creek Gorge, although the falls remain dry for most of the year.

The Crazy Joker is a fantastic and exciting place for children to play, with jumping castles, slides and a huge maze. They have a designated play area for children aged between one and three to play and explore. Their car area is for children aged two to seven. While the children are playing, parents can relax in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy a beautiful coffee and a meal.

The Crazy Joker is for parental supervision and children need to wear socks to play. No food or drinks are allowed to be taken into The Crazy Joker.

Ask them about hiring the Crazy Joker for your private party, function or corporate training. Take the stress and mess away with your childrens birthday parties. The Crazy Joker has three themed party rooms to choose from and includes a special throne chair to sit in, party blowers, balloons, invitations, lolly bags and birthday cake along with seven selections of great party food and drinks and a host to host your child's birthday. Everything catered for you just come along. The place to party, enjoy and relax.

The Great Western Hotel is one of Australia's most renowned and iconic hotels. Established in 1862, the Great Western Hotel is one of Queensland's oldest hotels. Developed as a national tourist destination, the Great Western Hotel pays tribute to contemporary Australian bush culture and boasts its own indoor rodeo area, making it the only hotel in Australia, and one of only two in the world, with its own indoor rodeo arena.

The Great Arena is a multi-faceted Entertainment Centre with seating for up to 3000 people, making it one the largest indoor entertainment venues in regional Australia. The hotel features five bars, a steakhouse restaurant, gaming saloon and retail outlet. Bullriding is held at the venue most Friday nights.

The Horse and Carriage is "a journey back in time". It has Queensland's largest collection of horse drawn vehicles on public display. There are 51 vehicles including a Hanson cab, Landeau carriage hearse, Cobb and Co. coach, an Austrian one horse open sleigh and wide wagon. There are also 22 farming implements with a full set of condamine bells and camp ovens, a Blacksmith and Saddlers shop and early Australian memorabilia and photographs.

The Tropic of Capricorn is the extreme southern position of the sun in apparent annual journey, (it's northern most position is the Tropic of Cancer). As the earth tilts on its axis, the sun appears to move in an orbit inclined 23 and a half degrees to the plane of the Earth's Equator. It reaches its southern position, the Summer Solstice on about 21 December each year and its opposite, the Winter Solstice on about 21 June each year. These two dates begin the official periods of Summer in the Northern and Southern hemispheres.

The Capricorn Tourism Visitor Information Centre is situated on Gladstone Road, Rockhampton is where the Tropic of Capricorn Spire is located. The Information Centre is also a registered travel agent and can help plan your holiday. Drinks and ice-creams can also be purchased as well as a range of Rockhampton souvenirs.

Virgin Rock, which is situated four kilometres from Springsure is on the eastern side of Mount Zamia and has a naturally formed likeness to the Virgin Mary and Child. The spectacular cliffs are floodlit at night and can be viewed from the Lions Park. The formation is amazing and a must see when travelling to Carnarvon Gorge.

The local Darumbal Aboriginal people have issued a special welcome to walkers to enjoy their time in Mount Archer National Park and there is so much to see and experience.

Practical advice offered by local walkers is to drive to the lookout atop of Mount Archer and walk the downward slope - your legs will thank you after you have finished the five-hour, 14 kilometre one way adventure.

Mount Archer is home to a variety of woodland birds including the vulnerable powerful owl. Glossy black cockatoos can also be seen feeding on she-oak seeds. If you wait quietly, you may see unadorned rock-wallabies come to drink from Moore's Creek in the early morning and late afternoon.

The dry rainforest communities are areas of high conservation value and include several plant species with restricted distributions.